Owing to the fact that the number of international students in the U.S. surpasses that of any other country (Becker & Kolster, 2012), American educational institutions need to take a vested interest in the experiences of international students and adequately meet the needs of this growing population (Akanawa, 2015). While diversity is a clear and undisputed example of added value, evidenced by the influx of international students- athletes to educational institutions and associated athletic programs, the potential still remains that the presence of international student-athletes results in adverse outcomes. The purpose of this study was to gain insight into the complex social environment of nationally diverse intercollegiate athletic teams. The perceptions of the primary stakeholders, coaches and student-athletes, both domestic and international, gathered through individual in-depth qualitative interviews, may aid in greater understanding of the social climate of athletic teams; helping to clarify misconceptions, shed light on existing issues and possible resolutions to help promote an inclusive community, assuring just practices that are favorable for all parties involved. Social Capital Theory and Tuckman's Model of Small Group Development (1965) were used to guide the study. The findings revealed three major themes and 24 subthemes. In alignment with social capital theory, the first theme, "Benefits", emphasized the many positive outcomes associated with intercollegiate athletics participation, including the advantages directly related to the diversity in nationality within the team structure. Various stages of small group development were illuminated in the second theme "Challenges", which highlighted obstacles and difficulties that were woven into participants' experiences. The third theme, "Team Chemistry", which was inextricably linked to both "Benefits" and "Challenges", included emphasis on the fostering and maintenance of strong ties amongst teammates. The findings contribute insight and awareness of the dynamics of membership to an athletic team that includes both international and domestic student-athletes. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]